Combat Sports Wrap-Up: UFC Fight Night Delivers Thrills, International Boxing Heats Up

The past week in professional combat sports, from March 9th to March 15th, 2026, saw a mix of thrilling Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) action and significant boxing matches across the globe.

In mixed martial arts, the UFC held a notable event: UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos on March 14, 2026, live from the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. The card featured an impressive performance by Gillian Robertson, who secured the biggest win of her career by defeating Amanda Lemos in a women's strawweight bout. Other bouts on the card included Josh Emmett and Kevin Vallejos.

Professional boxing also delivered compelling matchups. On March 14, Arnold Barboza Jr. faced Kenneth Sims Jr. in a welterweight contest in Anaheim, California. Across the Pacific, Yokohama, Japan, hosted a WBC junior flyweight title fight on March 15, where champion Knockout CP Freshmart defended his belt against Shokichi Iwata. Closer to home, the International Battle of the Badges 2026 at Madison Square Garden on March 10 showcased Oliver Patrouch against Eoin O'Connor in a closely fought contest. Additionally, a heavyweight clash between Unividov and Thompson took place on March 9, described as a well-matched and bruising encounter. Regional Golden Gloves tournaments also took place, with events in Southern California, Georgia, and Michigan running through the week.